
The Clumsy Lovers – Under the Covers
The Clumsy Lovers
Under the Covers
By Sonja Oliver
A few months into my first semester at Washington State University back in 1998, a friend introduced me to a little bar in Moscow, Idaho known as John’s Alley. It wasn’t just the overpriced microbrew that caused me to swoon that night, but some Canadians who know how to rock, celtic bluegrass style. They called themselves The Clumsy Lovers.
Over the next couple years I was lucky enough to catch the Lovers several times at bars and street fairs in the area. Their high energy music makes
The Clumsy Lovers
Under the Covers
By Sonja Oliver
A few months into my first semester at Washington State University back in 1998, a friend introduced me to a little bar in Moscow, Idaho known as John’s Alley. It wasn’t just the overpriced microbrew that caused me to swoon that night, but some Canadians who know how to rock, celtic bluegrass style. They called themselves The Clumsy Lovers.
Over the next couple years I was lucky enough to catch the Lovers several times at bars and street fairs in the area. Their high energy music makes the old and young alike kick up their heels (literally), twirl and stomp their feet. In fact, I got shin splints from dancing on hard concrete at one of their shows.
When NadaMucho.com’s editor asked me to review The Clumsy Lovers’ newest album, Under the Covers, he knew I would do so with a lovingly personal touch. Unfortunately, after listening to the album, I was disappointed. It doesn’t hold up to the quality I’ve become accustomed to. Under the Covers is comprised entirely of cover songs, by artists ranging from Paul Simon to Lennon/McCartney to Bruce Springsteen. It’s always fun to see how covers are handled, but it’s a delicate line to walk, and this album became boring after only one listen.
This doesn’t harden my soft spot for The Clumsy Lovers; their music brings a spring to my step and puts a smile on my face. Just not this particular album.
Don’t be dissuaded by Under the Covers and pick up one of their other albums — I’d recommend Barnburner or Live! The latter approximates their great performances, and seeing the Lovers live is highly recommended. These guys love to travel, so they’ll probably make it through your neck of the woods at least a couple times a year.
Residents of our hometown Seattle can catch them September 12 at the Ballard Firehouse and at the Fremont Oktoberfest on September 21st in support of their new album of original material, After the Flood. If you’re lucky enough to make it to one (or both) of their shows, be sure to say hello and tell them how much you love them; they’re also one of the friendliest bands around.